Do your homework: Spend some time doing research on the companies you’ve targeted. The more homework you do, the easier it is to talk.

Do your homework: Spend some time doing research on the companies you’ve targeted. The more homework you do, the easier it is to talk.

Photo: Ludwg / Flickr

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First impression: Don’t think of the convention as time away from the office in which you can relax and wear what you want. What you’re wearing should be forgettable.

First impression: Don’t think of the convention as time away from the office in which you can relax and wear what you want. What you’re wearing should be forgettable.

Photo: ArTo / Fotolia

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Don't get in the way: While many have received job offers during the Offshore Technology Conference, don't be too aggressive. It’s important to be sensitive to the sales staff's time.

Don't get in the way: While many have received job offers during the Offshore Technology Conference, don't be too aggressive. It’s important to be sensitive to the sales staff's time.

Photo: NAN / Fotolia

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Getting ready: If you’re heading to OTC, now is the time to make sure your on-line presence is in good shape.

Getting ready: If you’re heading to OTC, now is the time to make sure your on-line presence is in good shape.

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How to meet and greet: The key to confidently meeting and greeting people you don’t know? Practice.

How to meet and greet: The key to confidently meeting and greeting people you don’t know? Practice.

Photo: thetaxhaven / Flickr

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Networking tip: Icebreakers

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It’s tough to start a conversation with someone you don’t know. Especially when you wander into a booth at OTC.

The weather isn’t a great starting point. Neither is the food — what can you say about dry sandwiches and overpriced sodas? You need a good opening line.

One career expert has a great suggestion. With all the huge rigs, engines and pumps jammed on the convention floor, it’s a natural: “Could you tell me about this piece of equipment?” suggested Vita Como, senior director of professional development for the Cullen College of Engineering Career Center at the University of Houston.

Or “what does it do?” she said.

And with that, you’re off and running. And without once having to chit-chat about Houston’s weather patterns.

Check FuelFix daily during OTC for more networking tips from L. M. Sixel, whose weekly Working column appears in the Houston Chronicle.